April 25, 2026; June 27, 2026; Sept 12, 2026
Source: https://www.chasingcancellara.com/
The Chasing Cancellara series in 2026 continues its tradition of challenging amateur cyclists to “chase” the times and spirit of the legendary “Spartacus,” Fabian Cancellara. The 2026 program features three flagship events across Switzerland and Liechtenstein, each offering unique terrains and difficulty levels.
2026 Event Schedule Chasing Cancellara Series
| Date | Event | Route | Distance / Altitude |
| April 25, 2026 | Granfondo Vaduz | Vaduz, Liechtenstein | Varies (Short, Medium, & Long) |
| June 27, 2026 | Zurich – Andermatt | Zurich to Andermatt | 195 km / 4,200 m |
| Sept 12, 2026 | Bern – Zermatt | Ittigen to Zermatt | 275 km / 5,500 m |
Key Highlights of the 2026 Program
1. Zurich – Andermatt (The Alpine Challenge)
Scheduled for mid-summer, this route is famous for its grueling finish.
- The Route: Starts along the scenic Lake Zurich, moves through Glarnerland, and culminates with the massive Klausen Pass before finishing in Andermatt.
- The Vibe: A “Festival Village” at the Piazza Gottardo in Andermatt serves as the finish line hub with food, music, and entertainment for fans and families.
2. Bern – Zermatt (The Ultimate Ultra)
This is the “Queen Stage” of the series and one of the toughest one-day amateur races in Europe.
- The Route: Departs from Ittigen (Bern) at 2:00 AM. It traverses the Gantrisch Nature Park and crosses the Mittelberg and Col du Pillon passes before the final ascent toward the Matterhorn in Zermatt.
- Time Cut: Riders must reach the finish by 8:00 PM (an 18-hour window).
3. Participation Formats
Across all events, you can choose how you want to “chase”:
- Singles: Tackle the entire distance alone.
- Couples/Happy Threesomes: Ride the full route together as a team (drafting allowed).
- Relays: Split the distance between team members (available for specific routes).
4. Registration & Packages
Standard registration usually includes a starter package sent to your home, a finisher medal, diploma, and a post-race meal.
- Early-Bird Pricing: Typically starts in November of the preceding year.
- Regular Entry: Available until shortly before the race dates, though these events frequently sell out due to limited starter slots.
Note: Because these routes involve high-altitude Alpine passes (like the Klausen Pass at 1,948m), the program is subject to weather conditions. Always check the official Chasing Cancellara website for the most current GPX files and safety briefings.
